HOT WHEELS 1/50 1966 TV SERIES BATBOAT VEHICLE

The Batboat is the latest in Hot Wheels' line of 1:50 scale vehicles based on the 1966 'Batman' television series, joining the Batmobile, Batcycle, and the Batgirl cycle ( at the time of this writing, the Batgirl cycle is still only available in a limited edition San Diego Comic Con boxset ).

The Batboat comes with a black plastic trailer, customized with the addition of batfins over the wheel wells, and bat insignias on the hubcaps. This trailer is a completely imaginary item, since on the television show ( and in the 1966 theatrical film where the boat was first introduced ) we never saw the Batboat being towed on a trailer of any kind. The boat was always seen to be docked by a pier, ready to go. The trailer attaches to a hitch added to newer editions of the previously released 1:50 scale Batmobile. Unfortunately, when the two models are displayed in tandem, it points out what appears to be a size discrepancy between the two, as the boat seems to be somewhat smaller in scale than the car. The boat does not stay securely, and only rests loosely atop the trailer.

As to the boat itself, the overall color is a dark metal-flake blue, with red pinstriping similar to that on the Batmobile. This is very close to the color of the original boat as seen on the T.V. series. The top of the boat has fairly correct silver highlighted detailing ( although curiously, the 'antenna' between the cockpit bubbles lacks the highlighting ). The sides of the hull have a large white flared leaf or feather shaped area on either side, which appears to be a common feature on the original Crestflite V174, which was produced and modified by Glastron for the show. However, on the Batboat, this was modified with the addition of a sporty red and yellow flame design. The flame on this toy, while similar, does not match the original exactly. However, it is close enough to pass inspection ( if you're not comparing it to still frames from the series ). The large tail fin has the appropriate yellow oval Batman shields ( though they look a bit small ), but it lacks the three white hightlights on both sides that accent the batwing scalloping in the rear ( I don't know why, but this is one missing detail that bothers me a lot ).

The shape of the boat itself seems to be a bit thicker and stubbier than the actual boat used on the show. I may be wrong, but it seems to my eyes that the length of the bow has been foreshortened. Unfortunately, the sculptors of this replica apparently did not have access to the original vehicle from which to take their measurements ( unlike the Hot Wheels Batmobile, which was created from digital scans of the actual car ).

Although the Batboat itself is not entirely accurate, It's still a nice addition to the Hot Wheels line, especially since replicas of the vehicles from the Batman television series have not been seen on toy store racks in well over twenty years. --Davidp

FRANKLIN MINT 1/32 AMERICAN LA FRANCE SERIES 700 OPEN CAB FIRE ENGINE

American La France Series 700 Open Cab Fire Engine Diecast Model by Franklin Mint. Huge and immensely powerful, the American La France has been hailed the most famous fire engine of all time. Now, the open cab version of the ultimate firefighter comes to life in this extraordinary model that re-creates every feature of the original. Check out the three-seater cabin with fully instrumented dash. There's a full complement of ladders, hoses and nozzles. Precision engineered with working features that include three-piece aerial extension ladder that rises more than 23" and rotates on its own turntable. Shop here

SCHUCO 1/43 VW T2A PORSCHE FACTORY VAN

In 1968, the second generation Volkswagen T2 Minibus was introduced. It was built in Germany until 1979. Models before 1971 are called T2a while models after 1972 are called T2b. This second-generation Minibus was slightly larger and considerably heavier than its predecessor. At 1.6 liter displacement and 48 hp, the engine was also slightly larger. The new model had half-shaft axles fitted with CV joints, which raised ride height. The T2b was introduced by way of gradual change over three years. The first models had unique body features, such as curvaceous bumpers with the front bumper wrapping around to form the step when the door was opened, front doors that opened to 90 degrees from the body and crescent air intakes in the D pillars. They also had unique engine hatches, and up until 1972 front turn signals set low on the nose, giving rise to their German nickname 'Low Lights'. Over its long life, VW made the T2 in a wide variety of configurations including the classic Minibus, delivery van, and the Combi, a useful platform for custom commercial designs. See more

SIGNATURE MODELS 1/18 1937 CORD 812 SUPERCHARGED

1937 Cord 812 Supercharged Diecast Car Model 1/32 Burgundy Die Cast Car by Signature Models
 
The cord 812 replaced the Cord 810 in early 1937 with the quality problems that plagued the original fixed and a pair of chromed exhaust pipes extending out and down from the engine compartment added on the supercharged model to enhance the Cord's racy looks. Yet, the changes were too late to save the marque and E.L.

SHELBY COLECTIBLES 1/18 1965 SHELBY COBRA 427 S/C DIECAST MODEL CAR

Shelby Cobra 427 S/C Diecast Model Blue 1/18 Die Cast Car By Shelby Collectables

If its muscle you want, Shelby's got plenty. The Shelby Mustang has its genesis in the 1960s and the name of famed Formula One racer Carroll Hall Shelby behind it. About 1,000 of these red, white, blue or green GT350H cars were produced and, today, are much sought after by collectors of running models (and selling for well over $100,000) as well as die cast car enthusiasts.

Beautifully crafted 1965 Blue Shelby Cobra 427 S/C Diecast Model Car. AC Cobras had an extensive racing career. The Cobra was perhaps too successful in the performance department and reputedly contributed to the implementation of national speed limits in the United Kingdom. A fine addition to any collection.

WELLY 1/18 1970 MERCURY COUGAR ELIMINATOR DIECAST MODEL CAR

1970 Mercury Cougar Eliminator Diecast Model Green 1/18 Die Cast Car By Welly

Mercury was produced by Ford in 1939 as an entry-level luxury car. It was a few rungs on the ladder below the prestigious Lincoln, but far more classy than a standard sedan or coupe. That strategy echoes the parent company's 90-year-old philosophy of making Mercury an entr'e to Lincoln ownership. Alternatively you can make a diecast model car replica a entr'e to actual Mercury ownership.

1970 was the second year for the Cougar Eliminator. The Eliminator package includes special graphics, spoiler, front air-dam and 351 windsor engine. This beautifully crafted 1970 Green Mercury Cougar Eliminator Diecast Model Car would make a fine addition to any collection.

WELLY 1/18 2003 NISSAN 350z DIECAST CAR MODEL

2003 Nissan 350Z Diecast Car Model 1/18 Red Die Cast Car by Welly

Nissan has become one of the world's biggest competitors to America's Big Three automakers. Many of the cars from the early Datsun years are popular with die cast car collectors. Riding on the wave of success, Nissan dressed up their economical cars in sporty designs, making them even more appealing diecast model cars, Japanese model cars, and diecast racecars.

Introduced in 2003 the 350z replaced the outgoing 300zx. 2006 Silver Nissan 350Z Roadster Diecast Model Car features opening hood, doors,trunk, and steerable front wheels.This 2003 Nissan 350z is a stunning model, and would make a fine addition to any collection.